Lafarge Canada Inc. and ATCO announce 12.5 year solar virtual power purchase agreement

Under this agreement, Lafarge’s Exshaw cement plant will receive one hundred percent of the solar energy produced by the 38.5-megawatt Empress Solar project, meeting 34% of the plant’s power requirements through 2036.

"We’re continually assessing ways we can reduce our environmental impact while actively pursuing sustainable solutions within our operations,” said Brad Kohl, president and CEO of Lafarge Canada (West). “Our collaboration with ATCO underscores our commitment to adopting renewable energy at our plants and sites, which is key to reducing our reliance on fossil fuels."

Lafarge's continued expansion into renewable energy in Alberta aligns with the company's broader strategy, Accelerating Green Growth while emphasising its ongoing investments to lower the carbon footprint of its operations and scope 2 emissions. Notably, Lafarge's Exshaw cement plant has now committed to power purchase agreements for both wind and solar energy, setting an industry precedent.

“This agreement represents the strides we are making to support our customers in meeting their clean energy goals,” said Bob Myles, Chief Operating Officer, ATCO EnPower. “We are proud to be at the forefront of the energy transition, and in a position to provide solutions to customers like Lafarge in reducing their carbon emissions.”

Under the agreement, Lafarge will offtake 100% of the power generated from the Empress Solar project, which is scheduled to commence commercial operations in October 2023, marking a step towards a greener, more sustainable energy landscape in Alberta. The Empress Solar project is expected to generate enough renewable energy to offset approximately 43 000 tpy of carbon. Once operational, the facility will further drive ATCO´s commitment to meeting ATCO’s 2030 ESG target of owning, developing, or managing over 1000 MW of renewable energy.

Read the article online at: https://www.worldcement.com/the-americas/11102023/lafarge-canada-inc-and-atco-announce-125-year-solar-virtual-power-purchase-agreement/